Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong yesterday expressed hope that the Sri Lankan government would make an early decision to resume delayed joint marine scientific research activities in Sri Lankan waters, saying the projects had been disrupted by various obstacles.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Colombo Maritime Dialogue organised by the Pathfinder Foundation, the ambassador highlighted the long-standing maritime links between China and countries in the Indian Ocean region.

He said the Indian Ocean had historically served as a major route for global trade and cultural exchange, while Sri Lanka, positioned at the strategic centre of the Indian Ocean, continued to play a unique and important role in regional connectivity and cooperation.

Qi noted that maritime cooperation was essential for Sri Lanka’s economic development and improving livelihoods. He said cooperation between China and Sri Lanka had expanded in recent years in areas including port development, shipping logistics, marine economy, disaster prevention and mitigation.

However, he said routine marine scientific research conducted jointly by scientists from both countries in Sri Lankan waters had been delayed due to “various disruptions.”

“We hope and believe that the Sri Lanka government, in consideration of its own sovereignty, dignity and interests, will make the right decision at an early date,” he said.

Referring to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s visit to China in 2025, the ambassador said both countries had agreed to strengthen maritime cooperation based on equality, mutual trust and mutual benefit.

According to Qi, the two sides had agreed to hold regular bilateral consultations on maritime affairs and deepen cooperation in marine environmental protection, maritime awareness, rescue and disaster relief, as well as maritime training and capacity building.

He also stressed that China supported peace, stability and development in the Indian Ocean region, adding that the ocean should not become an arena for major power rivalry.

“The Indian Ocean should become an ocean of peace, development, openness and cooperation,” he said, warning that any actions or ideas opposing such goals “will receive no support and are bound to fail.”

Concluding his remarks, the ambassador said the ocean offered “infinite possibilities” for cooperation and development among regional nations.